Walmart

Specifically, DC 6065, located in Harrisonville, MO, offers a steadfast employment opportunity. As a link in the vast chain of the world's largest retailer, stability is never a question. "Promotion from within" is a fairly strong commitment, which provides an avenue for upward mobility. Management candidates should be aware that respect for those who "walk in off the street" will be sparingly earned, especially in the beginning.

The company started by Sam Walton may have outlived its founder, but make no mistake, his beliefs and values are quite alive and well.

It is important to understand that Sam was a "good ol' boy" from Arkansas who, while a genius in the world of business, was quite simple-minded in many other ways. Sam worked nearly all the time and believed that others should as well.

His famous Saturday morning meetings (attendance mandatory) are held to this day, without fail. The ridiculous Walmart cheer (also mandatory) is performed with all the enthusiasm of a group of cult followers.

The message from Execs is clear: Conform, or move on. Free thinking is praised, in fact expected, but only if it fits inside the world according to Sam.

Expect 12-15 hour days. Expect to work both smarter and harder. Expect that safety, while enjoying its rightful place at the top of the priority list, will ALWAYS take a back seat (along with everything else) in order to earn that all-important dollar.

For the Waltons.

He whose numbers look the best does not always have anything like the best ideas, practices, team, or even results.

Endeavor to alter focus. Perhaps start with one of Sam Walton's practices:

• Hire the best man for the job and then trust that he's doing it as set forth and agreed upon.
• Then, have the ambition and fortitude to check up on him often.
• Praise that which deserves to be praised and acknowledge that which doesn't work.
• And when those at the bottom of the totem pole speak, listen to them with intent to act upon those things that matter most to them.